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Self-Employed Person Permit - Company in Norway (Oppholdstillatelse som selvstendig næringsdrivende)
NorwayNorway•Europe
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Self-Employed Person Permit - Company in Norway (Oppholdstillatelse som selvstendig næringsdrivende)

Investment PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

NOK kr 6,300

Stay Duration

1 year

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Self-employed business permit for entrepreneurs in Norway with minimum income of NOK 341,373, renewable annually with path to permanent residency after 3 years.

The Self-Employed Person Permit allows foreign entrepreneurs to establish and manage their own sole proprietorship in Norway. Applicants must demonstrate a viable business plan and sufficient capital to generate a minimum annual income of NOK 341,373, ensuring self-sufficiency. The business must require skilled worker competence.

Residence is granted annually and is renewable, with potential for permanent residency after three years. The application fee is NOK 7,900. The applicant must actively manage the business in Norway; significant changes require reassessment. Spouses may work freely and dependents are allowed.

This visa is ideal for skilled entrepreneurs with professional qualifications seeking to launch an independent venture in technology, consulting, trades, or creative industries.

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant1 year

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Permanent Residence Permit (Permanent oppholdstillatelse)
Norway flagNorway

Permanent Residence Permit (Permanent oppholdstillatelse)

ValidityIndefinite. The permanent residence permit allows holders to live and work in Norway without a time limit. A residence card is issued as proof of status and is valid for two years at a time, but the underlying permit is permanent.
Processing2.0–2.1 years
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be at least 18 years old.

Must plan to engage in long-term business activities in Norway.

The business must be a sole proprietorship (enkeltpersonforetak) owned by the applicant.

The business cannot be a limited liability company (AS).

The work performed must require skilled worker competence (vocational training, degree, or long experience).

The business must have a sufficient economic foundation to provide the applicant with a minimum annual income (currently set at 325,400 NOK).

Must have necessary public authorizations if the business type requires it.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

vocational or higher

Min. Income

341,373 NOK/yr

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Business plan

Educational credentials

Proof of capital

Business registration

Police certificate

Proof of accommodation

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Annual renewable permits with qualification for permanent residency after 3 years of continuous business operation
  • Sole proprietor visa requires no job offer or employer sponsorship
  • Family members and dependents allowed to join applicant during stay
  • Pathway to permanent residency for successful entrepreneurs
  • Self-directed business operations; no employment restrictions
  • Reduced application fee at NOK 6,300
  • Dual intent permitted; maintaining residency elsewhere is allowed

Worth Knowing

  • Minimum annual income threshold of NOK 341,373 required to support business
  • Must demonstrate skilled-worker qualifications (degree, vocational training, or experience)
  • Permit tied to specific business; major pivots require UDI reassessment and approval
  • Business failure or inability to maintain income threshold may result in permit revocation

Application Process

1

Develop business plan

Create detailed business plan showing viability

2

Register company

Register business in Norway (optional pre-application)

3

Prepare application

Gather all required documentation

4

Submit application

Submit through UDI online system

5

Attend interview

Appointment for biometrics and questions

6

Collect visa

Receive residence permit

Application Forms

Application for Self-Employed Permit—

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